Well I’ve returned from Dave’s book signing and I must say that I was thoroughly impressed.Not only has David written an excellent book – Your Career in Animation: How to Survive and Thrive – but he also had on hand five terrific panelists who discussed in depth their involvement in the field of animation. They were:

Linda Simensky – Senior Director of Children’s Programming for PBSMr. Warburton – Creator of Cartoon Network’s Codename: Kids Next DoorJackson Publick – Creator of adult swim’s The Venture BrothersBill Plymption – Independent animator and creator of Guard Dog and The Fan and the FlowerElanna Allen – Independent animator and creator of Pass the PinhaThey discussed how they got involved in the industry, the art of pitching and creating your own show, and even what to do in your off-time (i.e. between jobs and trying to get your next big break).

The overall theme was this: there is no ONE way to succeed in animation. Everyone must carve their own path. And often, carving that path involves getting to know as many people in the industry as possible, honing your skills and conveying your enthusiasm so that people will want to work with you.